Boyle backs Ireland to reach World Cup quarter-finals
World Cup hopeful Ryan Boyle believes Ireland have an excellent chance of qualifying for the last eight this autumn.
The Wolfhounds have been drawn alongside England, Australia and Fiji in Group A, and must win at least one match to stand any chance of finishing in one of the three available qualification places.
But despite Ireland’s status as a developing nation, Castleford forward Boyle says the team will head into the tournament confident of being successful.
“We’ve got a good chance of qualifying, but we’re under no illusions, we know it’s a tough group,” said Boyle.
“You’ve got to play those games eventually though, and we’re looking forward to each of them.
“We’re not just looking to turn up, we’re looking to compete in every match we play in.
“The main thing for us is to qualify for the knockout stage, but we’ll take each game as it comes and aim to maintain a level of consistency in our performances.
“If we’re competitive then who knows what could happen, and who’s saying we can’t progress beyond expectations.”
Ireland finished top of their group at the 2008 World Cup but were eliminated by Fiji in the semi-final qualification match.
But while revenge is certain to be on the agenda for the Wolfhounds this year, Boyle admits that it’s the clash with the Kangaroos at Thomond Park, Limerick, that fills him with the most excitement.
“I’m really looking forward to the game at Thomond Park, and hopefully the Irish people can turn up in their numbers and get behind us,” he said.
“I’m lucky enough to have played over in Ireland before so I know just how much it means to the people.
“They turned out in force for that one and, with the best players in the world on show at RLWC2013, I’m sure they will again.
“It’s an exciting sport and I’m sure the players will want to put a show on for those in attendance.
“We want to show people what a great sport Rugby League is. Those who haven’t checked out the code before should take this opportunity.
“I hope people give it a try and come down and see what we’re all about. There will be superstars on show, like Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk, the best players in the world.”
Ireland meet the Kangaroos on November 9. They face Fiji in Rochdale on October 28 and England in Huddersfield on November 2.
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